Explore the Daintree

Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree National Park holds the site of the oldest living rainforest on earth, the Daintree Rainforest. It is the only place in the world where two World Heritage-listed sites meet, the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.

Consisting of nearly 900 000 hectares, this rainforest is the most unique in the world. Vegetation is primarily tropical rainforest, but also includes open eucalypt forest, wetlands and mangrove forests. The area meets all natural criteria for World Heritage listing including the area’s exceptional natural beauty and the importance of its biological diversity and evolutionary history, including habitats for numerous threatened species.

The Eastern Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people are the Traditional Owners of Daintree National Park. They welcome you to their country and ask that you respect their special place.

What to do in the Daintree?

Located 20 minutes north of Port Douglas, the Mossman Gorge is a popular section of the Daintree National Park around a steep-sided valley on the Mossman River. Estimated at 60 000 years old, this lush tropical rainforest surroundings and creek scenery is an ideal spot for a day swimming, exploring walking tracks, watching bird and wildlife and enjoying the dedicated picnic areas. It is a site of Aboriginal heritage significance, with guided walks from the native Kuku Yalanji Mossman Gorge Community.

A short 30 minute drive north of the Mossman Gorge is the Daintree Village, on the southern banks of the Daintree River. Daintree Village is known for its unique bird life and crocodile spotting tours, which are a must do for any visitor. But if that is too adventurous for you, why don’t you get pampered in a rainforest spa, check out the local shops and art galleries or just sit back and relax amongst your rainforest surroundings. There is a range of Daintree Village accommodation to suit all types of traveller from a resort, private and secluded B&B’s, holiday houses and camping sites. And don’t forget to try a famous Croc Burger!

The ancient Daintree Rainforest is contained within the area between Daintree Village and Cape Tribulation. At an estimated 140 million years old, it is the oldest living tropical rainforest on earth. It is the only place in the world where two World Heritage listed sites meet, the Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef. There is a fully sealed road to Cape Tribulation where you can experience the many attractions, walking tracks, or take guided tours by day and night and go swinging through the treetops. If you wish to venture further north, you can explore the rugged rainforest territory in a 4WD, visit pristine freshwater swimming spots and experience places of special significance to the native Aboriginal people.

The famous Bloomfield Track links Cape Tribulation to Cooktown and is a great way to explore if you are looking for a bit of adventure. The 4WD track has several creek crossings, steep climbs and slippery when wet. Be sure to check with local authorities on the condition of the road, as poor weather conditions can result in the closure of the track due to safety. If you do venture along this scenic route, be sure to stop at Cowie and Emmagen beaches for a gorgeous view, and don’t forget the roaring Bloomfield Falls at the Bloomfield River, Wujal Wujal.

Getting Here

The Daintree is easily accessible to explore, the question is how. From Port Douglas, you can book a day trip that may cover some or all of the entry points to the Daintree, as well as to private areas that are only accessible on a tour. Families or groups may benefit from a private day charter – that way the day is yours to determine, with the experience and knowledge of your driver and guide. For self-drivers, the road is sealed to Cape Tribulation and there are great maps you can pick up at info centres to show you the way. We recommend splitting your holiday and stay in the Daintree – that way you can fit more in!

The Daintree Rainforest is one of the most spectacular pieces of natural beauty you will encounter in your lifetime, it’s up to you how you would like to enjoy it. For more information on visiting this region, visit Destination Daintree.

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Welcome to Port Douglas & Daintree

This site features travel information for your Port Douglas and Daintree holiday including accommodation, tours, attractions and activities and visitor information. See you in paradise soon!